"I congratulate the security forces for their bravery, and I bow to their courage. Our government is continuously getting success in this regard... I believe that Union HM Amit Shah's resolve to eliminate Naxalism from the country by March 2026 will be fulfilled," Sai told ANI.
Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma, on the Sukma encounter, emphasized that both the Chhattisgarh and Central governments are focused on peace and have implemented a strong surrender policy, ensuring no inconvenience to anyone.
The killed naxal was involved in the Jhiram Ghati incident earlier, in which top Congress leaders of Chhattisgarh were killed, and the Narayanpur incident, where several security personnel were killed.
Security forces neutralized 16 Naxalites in an encounter in Sukma, Chhattisgarh. Deputy CM Arun Sao reiterated the government's goal to eliminate armed Naxalism by March 2026, stating that security forces are working bravely under Union Home Minister Amit Shah's directive.
16 naxals were killed in the in an encounter with security forces in the forest of Upampalli Kerlapal area at the Sukma-Dantewada Border on Saturday whereas two jawans sustained injuries.
According to a release issued by the PMO, the Prime Minister will visit Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh on March 30. He is expected to travel to Nagpur at around 9 AM to take Darshan at Smruti Mandir and then visit Deekshabhoomi.
Sukma Superintendent of Police Kiran Chavan confirmed the recovery of 16 Naxal bodies from the site and said, "Two of our jawans sustained injuries during the operation and are being evacuated for medical attention."
The exchange of fire began following a joint anti-Naxal operation launched by the District Reserve Guard (DRG) and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) on Friday.
A 'Pride Run' was organised on Saturday in Raipur by the Social Welfare Department along with Chhattisgarh Mitwa Sankalp Samiti to promote the message of gender equality.